1. Zigzag or whip stitch the edges of the fabric to keep it from raveling.

2. Look at the chart for the number of threads to use for each type
of stitch. Usually two strands are used for cross- stitch and one strand
for backstitch.

3. To find the center of the fabric, fold lengthwise and press along
the fold with fingers. Do the same crosswise. The center is where the
two folds intersect.

4. Each square on the chart represents one stitch. Each symbol represents
the color of thread to use. Heavy lines represent backstitches. Note:
If 28 count fabric, stitch over two threads of fabric for each square
on the chart.

5. Mark the top of the fabric with a permanent marker so that you don't
get mixed up when stitching.

6. Find the nearest symbol to the intersection of the two arrows and
begin to stitch. Hold the thread behind the fabric until it is secure
with three or four stitches.

7. Finish the thread by running the needle through three or four finished
stitches on the back. Cut the thread close to the fabric. Do not knot
the thread.

Click on this for
instructions on how to do different types of stitches.